Dana Gibson’s Colorful and Cheery Interiors

If you love bright and cheerful interiors with a generous dash of whimsey, you are going to love the Richmond, Virginia homes of Dana Gibson, a celebrated designer of furniture, wall covering, art prints, and textiles. Known for her fearless use of color, Dana draws upon the past to create delightful products that will stand the test of time – a philosophy that is also evident throughout her decor.

Dana’s passion for art and design runs in the family. Her mother is a painter, and her great-grandfather was Charles Dana Gibson, the 19th-century artist who created the elegant “Gibson Girl” modeled after his wife. Her great-aunt was the illustrious Nancy Lancaster, co-owner of Colefax and Fowler in London.  Lancaster was one of the most influential designers of the past century, renowned for creating English Country House Style.

Today, we will first visit Dana’s current home, a stately 1912 Colonial Revival located in the Ginter Park neighborhood of Richmond.  For the first time, Dana worked with an interior designer, Sara Hillery, after having previously decorated her own interiors. Together, Dana and Sara set about adding vibrant color and mixing and matching Dana’s extensive collection of antiques with modern pieces. Photography from this tour is from House Beautiful.

We will also step inside Dana’s former home, a 1957 split level she renovated with her contractor husband, Mark. “There’s an openness to Southern culture that’s influenced me,” she told Southern Living. “I want my house to look like it belongs to a world traveler.” Photography from her former home is from Southern Living and Richmond Magazine.

Now, let’s step inside Dana’s former 1957 home!

These beautiful homes are certain to put a smile on anyone’s face! 🙂  For additional details, please visit House Beautiful, Southern Living, and Richmond Magazine. You can bring some of Dana’s charm into your own home with some of her designs below…